Things To Do In London: Tuesday 4 August 2015

LONDON'S CONTROVERSIAL BRIDGES

We recently explored the furore over Boris's proposed Garden Bridge on a Londonist out Loud podcast. Whether you think it's a welcome addition or a waste of public money, London already has had its fair share of wacky proposals for bridges as we discovered in our Unbuilt London series.

BACKPACK AROUND THE V&A:Every day during the summer holidays you can pick up a backpack from the V&A before embarking an an adventure around the museum. The backpack includes all you need for fun, hands-on activities suitable for 5-12 year olds. Free, just turn up, 10am-4pm

BEER TASTING:Go behind the scenes at Crate Brewery in Hackney Wick to see where the magic happens. Learn about the story of craft beer and the history of Hackney Wick's famous fermenters. £15, prebook, 6.30pm

BOURNE AND HOLLINGSWORTH MASTERCLASS:In this session at the B&H buildings on Northampton Road you can learn about the history of Vermouth and aromatised wines, which includes boozy tastings and a cocktail creation from one of the B&H bartenders. £10, prebook, 7.30pm

SHAKESPEARE:Ascend to the Loft at Tanner Street for the chance to see Shakespeare’s Henry V performed in original pronunciation by Ben Crystal’s Passion in Practice Shakespeare Ensemble. The production is lit by atmospheric candlelight. £10/£20, prebook, 8pm

CHRISTIE’S LATEDrop in to Christie's in South Kensington for a post-work drink where you can hear experts talk about art, interior design and collecting. Guest speakers include bespoke wallpaper designer Tracy Kendall, and James McWhirter and Sarah Morris of McWhirter Morris. Pick up decorating tips and learn how to spot a copy from an original antique. Free, just turn up, 6pm-8.30pm

YOGA:Release the tension of the day at this yoga class in Ravenscourt Park in Chiswick. Mats are provided but there are no showers, so bring wet wipes, as you're likely to work up a sweat. £10, prebook, 6.30pm

SWING DANCE CLASS:In various locations around London people are dancing away their Tuesday nights. Tonight head to Yager Bar in St Paul's for a beginners Blues dance class. A great way to exercise, have fun and meet new people. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes. £10, prebook, 7pm

COMEDY:Words cannot express how much we love Andrew O'Neill, so we're not going to try. Lazy. However, if you love whimsical, joyful comedy with a hint of metal, go to the Phoenix, on Cavendish Square, to see his show Mindspiders. And maybe stay to catch other shows at the Phoenix Fringe from Marcel Lucont and Gareth Richards. £8/£10, prebook, 7pm

POETRY CAFE:Head to the Poetry Cafe in Covent Garden for Poetry Unplugged, the ever-popular open mic night. It's a friendly environment for first timers or 'poetry virgins' as they're known. Or forgo the nerves, grab a drink and enjoy the efforts of others. £4/£5, just turn up, 7.30pm

COCKTAILS AND JAZZ:A perfect combination! Sip on cocktails in the lovely surroundings of Merchant House while filling your ears with sax. Two cocktails are included in the ticket price. £15, prebook, 8pm

DONNIE DARKO: Tonight catch a screening of creepy and confusing film Donnie Darko al fresco style. Snuggle down on a beanbag on the rooftop of Snap Studios, reserve a pillow or take your own. It's BYO — so don't forget to take cinema snacks. £25, prebook, 8.45pm

EASTEND CABARET:Spend the evening at Soho Theatre being entertained by Perverts — AKA Bernie and Victy — who are back with an utterly raucous and unashamedly risqué show of their most salacious songs. This one is a real treat, and not to be missed. £8, prebook, 9.30pm

Good Cause

Tickets are now on sale for a BBC Children in Need concert featuring a night of entertainment and music with Sir Tom Jones and Rob Brydon. Money raised goes towards disadvantaged children across the UK. The concert takes place at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Thursday 8 October and ticket prices vary.

Think London needs more affordable housing?

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